AUDITORY-VERBAL THERAPY OUTCOMES IN PEDIATRIC COCHLEAR IMPLANT USERS: A NARRATIVE REVIEW

Abstract

Cochlear implants (CIs) provide access to sound for children with severe-to-profound hearing loss, but functional outcomes depend on consistent rehabilitation and family participation. Auditory-Verbal Therapy (AVT) is a listening-based intervention that aims to develop spoken language through structured auditory input, active caregiver involvement, and everyday communication practice. This narrative review examines outcomes of AVT in pediatric cochlear implant users, focusing on speech perception, language development, speech production, literacy, and academic participation. Evidence suggests that children who receive early implantation and sustained AVT can achieve favorable auditory and spoken-language outcomes, although progress varies across individuals and domains. Factors such as age at implantation, duration of therapy, family engagement, device use, and access to services influence results. While AVT is a valuable rehabilitation option for families prioritizing listening and spoken language, methodological limitations in the current literature and unequal access to services highlight the need for individualized planning, standardized outcome reporting, and expanded service availability.